Public library goes green

THE Mount Gambier Public Library is going green by dumping the petroleum-based plastic book coverings that use up fossil fuels, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and places a burden on waste management.

In fact, the Library is one of the first in the world to start using fully-biodegradable book coverings, made from 100pc sustainable resources.

Mount Gambier Councillor John Kyrimis, whose portfolio responsibility includes recreation and culture, said an estimated 400 tons of self-adhesive book covering was used throughout Australian libraries every year.

"The new book covering film used is a revolutionary new product that, for once, has no adverse effect on our environment," he said.

The new NatureCover uses corn as its primary ingredient, the process involving the conversion cornstarch into a palletised form of plastic - the same as used in biodegradable shopping bags.

In line with this clean green image, the Library will also cease providing plastic bags, encouraging patrons to buy cheap not-for-profit calico bags instead, and already has a recycling service which sends cartridges and other rubbish to the Eucalypt Drive Waste Transfer Centre.

"Mount Gambier Public Library is setting an example to the community by taking up the challenge and accepting responsibility through changing work habits to help the environment," Cr Kyrimis said.